Table of Contents:
Introduction
The Changing Landscape of Grandparenting
Reasons Behind the Shift
The Role of Television and Mobile Phones
Emotional, Social, and Physical Impacts
The Dying Art of Storytelling and Value Imparting
The Disappearance of Intergenerational Bonding
The Rise of Solitude Behind Screens
Future Consequences
Rebuilding the Bridge: What Can Be Done?
Conclusion
1. Introduction
In every traditional Indian household, the presence of grandparents once meant a strong emotional foundation—a source of wisdom, warmth, and values. Grandparents were the torchbearers of stories, cultural heritage, and emotional resilience. But with the surge of television and mobile technology, this relationship is undergoing a drastic transformation. It is not just the youth who are engrossed in screens—the elderly too are slipping into the grip of digital detachment. This article explores this concerning shift.
2. The Changing Landscape of Grandparenting
There was a time when grandparents were at the heart of family life. Their routines included telling mythological stories, making home remedies, or simply lending an ear to grandchildren’s day-to-day troubles. Today, many elderly individuals spend their day binge-watching TV shows or scrolling endlessly through mobile apps. Grandparenting, once a dynamic and emotionally rich experience, has started to fade into passivity and silence.
3. Reasons Behind the Shift
Nuclear Family Setup: With the increasing prevalence of nuclear families, physical and emotional distances between generations have grown.
Digital Displacement: With the youth and children immersed in gadgets, elders too feel compelled to adapt in order to avoid isolation.
Lack of Engagement Opportunities: Elders often have no one willing to listen or engage with them, pushing them further into the screen world.
Loss of Respect and Relevance: When wisdom and values are no longer sought, many elders feel redundant, turning to screens for escapism.
4. The Role of Television and Mobile Phones
Television serials and mobile content have become both a habit and a refuge for many elderly people. They provide company, distraction, and stimulation. But these devices also suck away time and attention from real human interactions. What’s worse, these gadgets are often used to distract or pacify grandchildren too, leaving both parties engaged with devices instead of each other.
5. Emotional, Social, and Physical Impacts
Emotional Detachment: As face-to-face interactions reduce, emotional bonding between generations suffers.
Social Isolation: Screen addiction gives the illusion of connectedness while deepening loneliness.
Physical Health Decline: Reduced physical movement, irregular eating habits, and sleep disruption due to excessive screen time are common problems among elderly gadget users.
6. The Dying Art of Storytelling and Value Imparting
One of the greatest losses has been the art of storytelling. Earlier, tales from the Ramayana, Mahabharata, Panchatantra, or even simple real-life experiences were tools for moral and cultural education. Today, those stories are replaced with high-pitched TV dramas and TikTok reels.
7. The Disappearance of Intergenerational Bonding
Children used to learn empathy, patience, and traditions through their interactions with grandparents. Now, with both parties consumed by gadgets, these learning opportunities are vanishing. Grandparents are no longer the emotional safe zones they once were.
8. The Rise of Solitude Behind Screens
Many believe elderly people turn to screens because they are alone. But the reality is often the reverse—excessive screen time is what creates and intensifies their solitude. Even in a house full of people, they are "digitally distant" and emotionally absent.
9. Future Consequences
If this trajectory continues, the coming generations will grow up deprived of emotional intelligence, cultural grounding, and personal warmth. Grandparents will be remembered for being “on their phones” rather than for their stories, laughter, and kindness. The loss is mutual—and devastating.
10. Rebuilding the Bridge: What Can Be Done?
Conscious Family Time: Designate screen-free hours to promote conversations and shared activities.
Reintroduce Storytelling: Encourage grandparents to share stories and life lessons regularly.
Digital Literacy: Teach elders to use technology in moderation and purposefully.
Involve Grandparents: Make them part of children’s routines—homework, playtime, bedtime.
Value Their Role: Recognize and reinforce their importance in the emotional and cultural fabric of the family.
11. Conclusion
The erosion of intergenerational relationships due to screen addiction is a silent epidemic. While technology is here to stay, its usage must be mindful. Grandparents must be encouraged to reclaim their rightful role—not just as viewers and scrollers, but as nurturers, teachers, and emotional anchors. Let us not let the glow of screens dim the warmth of real relationships.
